Â California American Water announced today that Kevin Murray, former state senator and principal in The Murray Group, has been appointed to its board of directors.

"Kevin Murray is known throughout Los Angeles County and the State of California for his expertise on community and government issues. During his 12 years in the state government, including the Assembly and Senate, and his service on the Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee, Kevin demonstrated his expertise in water and utility issues," said Rob Maclean, President of California American Water. "In addition he has lived in neighborhoods served by California American Water for most of his life. We are pleased to have someone with Mr. Murray's expertise and stature join our board."

Murray was born and raised in Los Angeles County. He started work in the mailroom of the William Morris agency in 1982, rising to become Senior Vice President, representing artists such as Al. B. Sure!, Bobby Brown, Chaka Khan, Kenny G, Lady Gaga, the Nelsons, Smokey Robinson and the Temptations. He left William Morris in 1989 to pursue politics, and served in the State Assembly and Senate until 2006.Â Murray served on several important committees while in office, including chairing the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee. He also chaired the Senate Democratic Caucus as well as the California Legislative Black Caucus.

In addition to his work at The Murray Group, Murray sits on several boards, including the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco and Premier Power, a solar energy company. Murray also sits on many non-profit boards, including Rock The Vote, the Los Angeles Urban League and the Beverly Hills Bar Association. He is a member of the California State Bar and the Los Angeles World Affairs Council. He is also an associate member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. Murray holds a license to practice law and real estate in California. He earned his law degree from Loyola Law School, an M.B.A. from Loyola Marymount University, and a B.S. in Business Administration and Accounting from CSU Northridge. He has also studied at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

"I have been a customer of California American Water most of my life," Murray said. "My family has always relied on the water service they provide, and it is my pleasure to now be able to work with the company leadership on issues such as water supply, rates and conservation."

California American Water's board of directors supports the company in fulfilling its mission of providing high quality, reliable water and wastewater service to its customers. Members of the board foster a culture of strong corporate governance through rigorous discussion and debate and the exercise of their independent judgment in the decision-making process. The company greatly values the role and input of the board.